Pressure-mediated hypertrophy and mechanical stretch induces IL-1 release and subsequent IGF-1 generation to maintain compensative hypertrophy by affecting Akt and JNK pathways

RATIONALE

It has been reported that interleukin (IL)-1 is associated with pathological cardiac remodeling and LV dilatation, whereas IL-1beta has also been shown to induce cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Thus, the role of IL-1 in the heart remains to be determined.

OBJECTIVE

We studied the role of hypertrophy signal-mediated IL-1beta/insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 production in regulating the progression from compensative pressure-mediated hypertrophy to heart failure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Pressure overload was performed by aortic banding in IL-1beta-deficient mice. Primarily cultured cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and cardiac myocytes (CMs) were exposed to cyclic stretch. Heart weight, myocyte size, and left ventricular ejection fraction were significantly lower in IL-1beta-deficient mice (20%, 23% and 27%, respectively) than in the wild type 30 days after aortic banding, whereas interstitial fibrosis was markedly augmented. DNA microarray analysis revealed that IGF-1 mRNA level was markedly (approximately 50%) decreased in the IL-1beta-deficient hypertrophied heart. Stretch of CFs, rather than CMs, abundantly induced the generation of IL-1beta and IGF-1, whereas such IGF-1 induction was markedly decreased in IL-1beta-deficient CFs. IL-1beta released by stretch is at a low level unable to induce IL-6 but sufficient to stimulate IGF-1 production. Promoter analysis showed that stretch-mediated IL-1beta activates JAK/STAT to transcriptionally regulate the IGF-1 gene. IL-1beta deficiency markedly increased c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and caspase-3 activities and enhanced myocyte apoptosis and fibrosis, whereas replacement of IGF-1 or JNK inhibitor restored them.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate for the first time that pressure-mediated hypertrophy and mechanical stretch generates a subinflammatory low level of IL-1beta, which constitutively causes IGF-1 production to maintain adaptable compensation hypertrophy and inhibit interstitial fibrosis.

Search for proton decay via p-->e+pi0 and p-->micro+pi0 in a large water Cherenkov detector

We have searched for proton decays via p-->e;{+}pi;{0} and p-->micro;{+}pi;{0} using data from a 91.7 kt.yr exposure of Super-Kamiokande-I and a 49.2 kt.yr exposure of Super-Kamiokande-II. No candidate events were observed with expected backgrounds induced by atmospheric neutrinos of 0.3 events for each decay mode. From these results, we set lower limits on the partial lifetime of 8.2 x 10;{33} and 6.6 x 10;{33} years at 90% confidence level for p-->e;{+}pi;{0} and p-->micro;{+}pi;{0} modes, respectively.

Chiral and collinear ordering in a distorted triangular antiferromagnet

Magnetization, specific heat, and neutron diffraction measurements are used to map out the entire magnetic phase diagram of KFe(MoO4)2. This stacked triangular antiferromagnet is structurally similar to the famous multiferroic system RbFe(MoO4)2. Because of an additional small crystallographic distortion, it contains two sets of inequivalent distorted magnetic triangular lattices. As a result, the spin network breaks down into two intercalated yet almost independent magnetic subsystems. One is a collinear antiferromagnet that shows a simple spin-flop behavior in applied magnetic fields. The other is a helimagnet that instead goes through a series of exotic commensurate-incommensurate phase transformations. In the various phases one observes either true three-dimensional or unconventional quasi-two-dimensional ordering.

Surface components of Porphyromonas gingivalis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Research on Porphyromonas gingivalis, a periodontopathogen, has provided a tremendous amount of information over the last 20 years, which may exceed in part than that on other closely related members in terms of phylogenetic as well as proteomic criteria, including Bacteroides fragilis and B. thetaiotaomicron as major anaerobic, opportunistic pathogens in the medical field. In this minireview, we focused on recent research findings concerning surface components such as outer membrane proteins and fimbriae, of P. gingivalis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Elucidation of the surface components in P. gingivalis was especially difficult because outer membrane proteins are tightly bound to lipopolysaccharide and they are resistant to dissociation and separation from each other, even during sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, unless samples are appropriately heated. In addition, P. gingivalis is asaccharolytic and therefore a potent proteolytic bacterium, another factor causing difficulty in research. The study of the surface components was carefully carried out considering these unique features in P. gingivalis when compared with other gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

RESULTS

Separation of outer membrane proteins, and characterization of OmpA-like proteins and RagAB as major proteins, is described herein. Our recent findings on FimA and Mfa1 fimbriae, two unique appendages in this organism, and on their regulation of expression are also described briefly.

CONCLUSION

Surface components of P. gingivalis somehow have contact with host tissues and cells because of the outermost cell elements. Therefore, such bacterial components are potentially important in the occurrence of periodontal diseases.

The effects of isoflurane on adrenomedullin-induced haemodynamic responses in pithed rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Adrenomedullin is a potent vasodilatory peptide. The mechanisms of adrenomedullin-induced responses are via guanine nucleotide guanosine 5'-triphosphate-binding protein (G-protein)-coupled receptor activation and are similar to those of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Previously, we reported that sevoflurane and isoflurane inhibit CGRP-induced haemodynamic responses. The effects of volatile anaesthetics on adrenomedullin-induced haemodynamic responses, however, are unclear. We hypothesized that the volatile anaesthetic isoflurane inhibits adrenomedullin-induced haemodynamic responses. We studied the effects of isoflurane on adrenomedullin-induced haemodynamic responses in pithed rats, which enables us to evaluate the direct cardiovascular effects of drugs without interference from centrally mediated circulatory reflexes.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were pithed by inserting a stainless-steel rod into the spinal cord. Following median sternotomy, a flow probe was placed around the ascending aorta to measure aortic blood flow. Mean arterial pressure and cardiac output were maintained at approximately 100 mmHg and 50 mL min-1, respectively, with continuous infusion of norepinephrine. After 30 min inhalation of isoflurane (1%, or 2%) in oxygen, or only oxygen, adrenomedullin (1, 3, 10 or 30 microg kg-1) was administered intravenously.

RESULTS

Adrenomedullin administration induced a transient increase followed by a persistent decrease in mean arterial pressure and cardiac output. Isoflurane (2%) significantly inhibited the initial increase in mean arterial pressure and the later decrease in mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance.

CONCLUSION

Isoflurane inhibits adrenomedullin-induced vasodilation and positive inotropic effect in pithed rats. Isoflurane might inhibit the adrenomedullin receptor-mediated response, which is a common pathway for both actions.

Effect of dopamine on the healing of acetic acid-induced gastric ulcers in rats

Dopamine, as a neurotransmitter in the brain, is also present in the gastroduodenal mucosa and has been implicated in several functions in these tissues. Recent study showed that dopamine acts as a potent antitumor/angiogenic activity through suppression of growth factor expression. Since growth factors are known to play a crucial role in the mechanism of wound healing, it is possible that dopamine has a deleterious influence on the healing of gastric ulcers. In the present study, we examined the effect of dopamine on the healing of acetic acid-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Gastric ulcers were induced in male SD rats by serosal application of acetic acid for 60 sec. Dopamine was subcutaneously given twice daily for 7 days, starting 3 days after ulceration. In some case, the osmotic mini-pump filled with dopamine was implanted into the dorsal subcutaneous space in rats for 7 days. VEGF and Flk-1 mRNA expressions were determined by RT-PCR. Dopamine (3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) given subcutaneously for 7 days did not significantly affect the healing of gastric ulcers. The expression of VEGF and Flk-1 mRNA in the ulcerated mucosa was up-regulated after ulceration, and these expressions were not affected by dopamine. Likewise, dopamine (0.6 mg/kg/hr) infused continuously using the osmotic mini-pump also had no effect on the healing of these ulcers. These results suggest that dopamine, although reportedly shows a potent antitumor/angiogenic activity, does not cause any influence on the healing of the pre-existing gastric ulcers in rats.

Pharmacokinetic study of a combination chemo-endocrine treatment of paclitaxel and toremifene

13017

Background: The mechanism of paclitaxel (PXL) resistance has been investigated. P-glycoprotein (P-gp) on cell membrane could be an important target for improving efficacy of PXL. Toremifene (TOR) may moderate P-gp-related drug resistance in vitro. To determine safety and efficacy of PXL and TOR, we conducted a pharmacokinetic study for a combination chemo-endocrine treatment of PXL plus TOR for metastatic breast cancer. Methods: Patients with metastatic breast cancer, who were previously treated with a standard chemotherapy without PXL, were eligible. Patients received PXL 80 mg/m2(i.v.) weekly on days 1, 8, and 15 in a cycle. Concurrently, toremifene 120mg/body (p.o.) was given dairy from day 1–28 in a cycle. For pharmacokinetic study, single agent of PXL was initially administrated on day 1, 8, and 15. From day 18, TOR 120mg/body was given dairy. On day 22, PXL administration in second cycle was skipped. On day 32, blood samples were collected from the patients received PXL 80 mg/m2 + TOR 120 mg/day/body. Samples were analyzed by HPLC (Unisil Q 5CN). Response was evaluated by WHO criteria and adverse events were evaluated by NCI•CTC Ver.2. Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled. Out of 19, 15 patients had measurable disease, and 1 partial response, 8 stable disease, and 6 progressive disease were observed. The addition of TOR caused in no specific adverse events more than grade 3 and toxic profile in combination was similar that in PXL monotherapy. Pharmacokinetic profile of PXL was similar with/without TOR. In addition, Cmax of TOR was 1.85±0.71 mg/mL. Tmax was 2.9±1.8 hr were observed. AUC0–8 of TOR was not affected in the presence of PXL. AUC0- 8 of TOR-1, metabolite of TOR, also demonstrated the similar pharmacokinetic profile. Pharmacokinetic parameters of PXL did not reveal intra-patient variability in previously treated metastatic breast cancer patients. Conclusions: Pharmacokinetic profile in a combination of PXL and TOR was similar that in PXL monotherapy. The addition of TOR to PXL for previously treated metastatic breast cancer patients might be safety.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Bactericidal effects of plasma-generated cluster ions

Air purification by plasma-generated cluster ions (PCIs) relies on a novel technology producing hydrated positive and negative ions. Phenomenological tests have shown strong evidence of lethal effects of the PCIs on various micro-organisms. However, the mechanisms of PCI action are still widely unknown. The aim was thus to test the bactericidal efficacy of PCI technology on common indoor micro-organisms and to explore possible PCI mechanisms of action. According to time/dose-dependent experiments with Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Micrococcus and Bacillus, the inhibiting effects became apparent within the first few minutes of PCI exposure and led to an irreversible 99.9% destruction within the following 2-8 h of exposure. The destructive effect of the PCIs corresponded to membrane damage of the bacteria. Use of the techniques of both SDS PAGE and 2D PAGE revealed changes in the bacterial surface protein composition induced by the PCIs. In contrast, neither DNA nor cytoplasm protein damage was detected electrophoretically. The antimicrobial action of the PCIs seems to occur because of chemical modification of the surface proteins of bacteria. In situ hydroxyl radical formation on the surface of bacteria was proposed as the leading mechanism of the protein damage caused by the PCIs. At the same time, DNA damage seems not to be involved in the antibacterial action of the PCIs. The data obtained would broaden the knowledge concerning the antibacterial effects of air-born plasma-generated cluster ions and help to produce more efficient air-cleaning devices.

Measurement of atmospheric neutrino flux consistent with tau neutrino appearance

A search for the appearance of tau neutrinos from nu(mu) <--> nu(tau) oscillations in the atmospheric neutrinos has been performed using 1489.2 days of atmospheric neutrino data from the Super-Kamiokande-I experiment. A best fit tau neutrino appearance signal of 138+/-48(stat)-32(+15)(syst) events is obtained with an expectation of 78+/-26(syst). The hypothesis of no tau neutrino appearance is disfavored by 2.4 sigma.

Improved search for nu(mu) --> nu(e) oscillation in a long-baseline accelerator experiment

We performed an improved search for nu(mu) --> nu(e) oscillation with the KEK to Kamioka (K2K) long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiment, using the full data sample of 9.2 x 10(19) protons on target. No evidence for a nu(e) appearance signal was found, and we set bounds on the nu(mu) --> nu(e) oscillation parameters. At Deltam(2)=2.8 x 10(-3) eV(2), the best-fit value of the K2Knu(mu) disappearance analysis, we set an upper limit of sin(2)2theta(mue) < 0.13 at a 90% confidence level.

Left ventricular hypertrophy in mice with a cardiac-specific overexpression of interleukin-1

Recent studies have identified the importance of proinflammatory cytokines in the development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. However, the precise role of interleukin-1 (IL-1), one of the major proinflammatory cytokines, in the myocardium is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the pathophysiological consequences of cardiac expression of IL-1 in vivo. We generated mice with a cardiac-specific overexpression of human IL-1alpha. We then analyzed their heart morphology and functions. Histological and echocardiographic analyses revealed concentric LV hypertrophy with preserved LV systolic function in the mice. Our results suggest that myocardial expression of IL-1 is sufficient to cause LV hypertrophy.

Use of percutaneous cardiopulmonary support in catastrophic massive pulmonary fat embolism

We report a patient who sustained massive catastrophic pulmonary fat embolism while undergoing surgery for intramedullary nail of femur. Application of percutaneous cardiopulmonary support, in our view, saved the patient from cardiopulmonary collapse.

Study on purification mechanism in soil penetration facility for effluents from urban area and control strategies

In this study, demonstration experiments for removal of pollutants from road surface runoff during storm events were carried out under natural conditions in an outdoor pilot-scale soil penetration facility. In general, soil retains suspended matter and removes dissolved matter by adsorption. However, issues such as reduced purification capacity resulting from clogging and recovery of purification capacity during periods of intermittent supply of the storm water affect the removal efficiency of pollutants. Therefore, this study aimed at clarifying purification mechanisms during storm events and understanding how the structural characteristics of the soil penetration facility affect purification capacity based on long-term continuous measurements. In addition, modeling the purification mechanism under changing characteristics of rainfall in the long-term was undertaken.

Search for coherent charged pion production in neutrino-carbon interactions

We report the result from a search for charged-current coherent pion production induced by muon neutrinos with a mean energy of 1.3 GeV. The data are collected with a fully active scintillator detector in the K2K long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiment. No evidence for coherent pion production is observed, and an upper limit of is set on the cross section ratio of coherent pion production to the total charged-current interaction at 90% confidence level. This is the first experimental limit for coherent charged pion production in the energy region of a few GeV.

Airway problems related to laryngeal mask airway use associated with an undiagnosed epiglottic cyst

This report describes airway management difficulties in a patient with an asymptomatic and undiagnosed epiglottic cyst. Mask ventilation after induction of general anesthesia was uneventful. Insertion of an LMA resulted in inadequate ventilation. Fiberoptic intubation through an intubating LMA was impossible because the LMA pushed the cyst into the laryngeal inlet. Fibreoptic intubation, assisted by the use of a direct laryngoscope without the LMA was uneventful. Preoperative craniocervical scans performed for assessment of other conditions may reveal asymptomatic pathology in the airway.

Mutational effect for stability in a conserved region of thermolysin

AIMS

To investigate the mutational effect for the stability of thermolysin (TLN) in conserved regions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Mutational effects for stability at autodegradation sites of TLN in conserved region were studied. The bands of mutant TLN (34 kDa) on SDS-PAGE were decreased. However, those of mutant TLN cultivated with CaCl2 recovered to the same level as WT TLN. Dialysis study shows that these mutant TLN require more calcium ions than WT TLN.

CONCLUSIONS

From these results, calcium affinity of mutant TLN in the conserved regions seem to become weak, subsequently mutant TLN were easily autodegraded in the case of low concentration of CaCl2.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The autodegradation sites located in conserved regions of bacilli neutral proteases are important for the tertiary structure formation concerning the stability of the protein.

Evidence for muon neutrino oscillation in an accelerator-based experiment

We present results for nu(mu) oscillation in the KEK to Kamioka (K2K) long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiment. K2K uses an accelerator-produced nu(mu) beam with a mean energy of 1.3 GeV directed at the Super-Kamiokande detector. We observed the energy-dependent disappearance of nu(mu), which we presume have oscillated to nu(tau). The probability that we would observe these results if there is no neutrino oscillation is 0.0050% (4.0 sigma).

Identification of RAI3 as a therapeutic target for breast cancer

We have been investigating gene-expression profiles in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancers to identify molecules involved in breast carcinogenesis and to select genes or gene products that might be useful as diagnostic markers or targets for new molecular therapies. Here we report evidence that the gene encoding retinoic acid-induced protein 3 (RAI3) is a potential molecular target for treatment of breast cancers. Using quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), we documented increased expression of RAI3 in 19 of 25 primary breast cancers and in 6 of 11 breast-cancer cell lines examined, by comparison with normal mammary-gland tissue. Treatment of human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells with siRNA against RAI3 suppressed expression of RAI3 and also suppressed cell growth. Transfection of siRNA into breast-cancer cell lines MCF7 and T47D also suppressed RAI3 mRNA and growth of the cancer cells. Because our data imply that up-regulation of RAI3 function is a frequent feature of breast carcinogenesis, we suggest that selective suppression of signal from RAI3 might hold promise for development of a new strategy for treating breast cancers.

Left ventricular mechanical performance in elderly patients after induction of anaesthesia. A comparison of inhalational induction with sevoflurane and intravenous induction with fentanyl and propofol

We investigated changes in left ventricular mechanical performance in 40 patients aged > 70 years in whom anaesthesia had been induced with sevoflurane or with fentanyl and propofol. The ratio of ventricular contractility to arterial properties, which reflects left ventricular performance, was estimated from the ratio of ventricular end-systolic elastance to effective arterial elastance. This ratio decreased after induction in both groups, the magnitude of the decrease being significantly greater in the fentanyl/propofol group than in the sevoflurane group. Decreases in mean arterial pressure after induction of anaesthesia in the two groups were similar, whereas the magnitude of the decrease in heart rate in the sevoflurane group was greater than that in the fentanyl/propofol group. Sevoflurane may therefore be preferable to fentanyl and propofol for induction of anaesthesia in elderly patients because of its lesser effect on left ventricular performance.

Evidence for an oscillatory signature in atmospheric neutrino oscillations

Muon neutrino disappearance probability as a function of neutrino flight length L over neutrino energy E was studied. A dip in the L/E distribution was observed in the data, as predicted from the sinusoidal flavor transition probability of neutrino oscillation. The observed L/E distribution constrained nu(micro)<-->nu(tau) neutrino oscillation parameters; 1.9x10(-3)<Deltam(2)<3.0x10(-3) eV(2) and sin((2)2theta>0.90 at 90% confidence level.

Search for electron neutrino appearance in a 250 km long-baseline experiment

We present a search for electron neutrino appearance from accelerator-produced muon neutrinos in the K2K long-baseline neutrino experiment. One candidate event is found in the data corresponding to an exposure of 4.8 x 10(19) protons on target. The expected background in the absence of neutrino oscillations is estimated to be 2.4+/-0.6 events and is dominated by misidentification of events from neutral current pi(0) production. We exclude the nu(micro) to nu(e) oscillations at 90% C.L. for the effective mixing angle in the 2-flavor approximation of sin((2)2theta(microe)( approximately 1/2sin((2)2theta(13))>0.15 at Deltam(2)(microe)=2.8 x 10(-3) eV(2), the best-fit value of the nu(micro) disappearance analysis in K2K. The most stringent limit of sin((2)2theta(microe)<0.09 is obtained at Deltam(2)(microe)=6 x 10(-3) eV(2).

Limits on the neutrino magnetic moment using 1496 days of Super-Kamiokande-I solar neutrino data

A search for a nonzero neutrino magnetic moment has been conducted using 1496 live days of solar neutrino data from Super-Kamiokande-I. Specifically, we searched for distortions to the energy spectrum of recoil electrons arising from magnetic scattering due to a nonzero neutrino magnetic moment. In the absence of a clear signal, we found micro(nu)</=(3.6x10(-10))micro(B) at 90% C.L. by fitting to the Super-Kamiokande day-night spectra. The fitting took into account the effect of neutrino oscillation on the shapes of energy spectra. With additional information from other solar neutrino and KamLAND experiments constraining the oscillation region, a limit of micro(nu)</=(1.1x10(-10))micro(B) at 90% C.L. was obtained.

Recovery characteristics and post-operative delirium after long-duration laparoscope-assisted surgery in elderly patients: propofol-based vs. sevoflurane-based anesthesia

BACKGROUND

Post-operative mental dysfunction may be an important problem in elderly patients. This study was designed to compare the effects of propofol and sevoflurane anesthesia on recovery characteristics and the incidence of post-operative delirium (POD) in long-duration laparoscopic surgery for elderly patients.

METHODS

Fifty ASA physical status I-II patients over the age of 65 scheduled for laparoscopic surgery lasting 3 h or more randomly received propofol (group P, n = 25) or sevoflurane (group S, n = 25) for both induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. Both groups were combined with continuous perioperative epidural analgesia. The level of primary anesthetics was adjusted to maintain changes in mean arterial pressure within 20% of the pre-anesthetic values. The emergence times from anesthesia (eye opening, extubation, response to command, and orientation) were recorded, and the occurrence of POD was assessed by the delirium rating scale (DRS) during the first 3 days after surgery. All patients received oxygen and continuous epidural analgesia postoperatively.

RESULTS

Immediate emergence, i.e. eye opening and extubation was significantly faster after sevoflurane (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the incidences of POD in the two groups during the first 3 days after surgery. The scores for DRS on day 2 and 3 after surgery, however, were significantly higher in group P than in group S (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Sevoflurane may be preferable to propofol for general anesthesia in combination with epidural analgesia with respect to less effect on mental function during the early postoperative period for long-duration laparoscopic surgery in elderly patients.

Search for nu(e) from the sun at Super-Kamiokande-I

We present the results of a search for low energy nu(e) from the Sun using 1496 days of data from Super-Kamiokande-I. We observe no significant excess of events and set an upper limit for the conversion probability to nu(e) of the 8B solar neutrino. This conversion limit is 0.8% (90% C.L.) of the standard solar model's neutrino flux for total energy=8-20 MeV. We also set a flux limit for monochromatic nu(e) for E(nu(e))=10-17 MeV.

Anomalous resistivity resulting from MeV-electron transport in overdense plasma

Laser produced hot electron transport in an overdense plasma is studied by three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. Hot electron currents into the plasma generate neutralizing return currents in the cold plasma electrons, leading to a configuration which is unstable to electromagnetic Weibel and tearing instabilities. The resulting current filaments self-organize through a coalescence process finally settling into a single global current channel. The plasma return current experiences a strong anomalous resistivity due to diffusive flow of cold electrons in the magnetic perturbations. The resulting electrostatic field leads to an anomalously rapid stopping of fast MeV electrons (almost 3 orders of magnitude stronger than that through classical collisional effects).

Expression of interleukin 6 in synovial tissues in patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint

Using an immunohistochemical technique, we examined synovial tissue from 46 temporomandibular joints (TMJ) with internal derangement in 44 patients. As controls, we examined synovial tissue specimens from 7 joints with habitual dislocation without pain. In synovial tissues from 21 of the 46 joints with internal derangement, interleukin 6 (IL-6) was expressed in the synovial lining cells and in the mononuclear cells infiltrating the periphery of the blood vessels. The density of IL-6-stained cells in specimens with internal derangement correlated significantly with the grade of joint effusion shown by magnetic resonance imaging (P=0.01, r=0.32).

Correlations of the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2, vascular endothelial growth factor, and their receptors with angiogenesis in synovial tissues from patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint

Synovitis in internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is accompanied by the growth of new blood vessels. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are well-characterized angiogenic factors. The objective of this study was to elucidate the correlation between the expression of FGF-2, VEGF, and their receptors-FGF receptor-1 (FGFR-1) and VEGF receptor-1 (Flt-1)-with microvessel density in synovial tissues of the TMJ. Using an immunohistochemical technique, we examined 47 joints (45 patients) with internal derangement. Individual microvessel density was evaluated by means of the CD34 antibody, a specific endothelial marker. The correlation between the percentage of immuno-positive cells and microvessel density was evaluated. In multiple logistic regression analysis, the correlation between the percentage of Flt-1-positive cells and microvessel density was significant [p = 0.005, odds ratio = 1.071, 95% confidence interval = 1.021-1.124]. These results suggest that the expression of the VEGF/Flt-1 system is involved in angiogenesis in inflamed synovial tissue in the TMJ.

Search for supernova relic neutrinos at Super-Kamiokande

A search for the relic neutrinos from all past core-collapse supernovae was conducted using 1496 days of data from the Super-Kamiokande detector. This analysis looked for electron-type antineutrinos that had produced a positron with an energy greater than 18 MeV. In the absence of a signal, 90% C.L. upper limits on the total flux were set for several theoretical models; these limits ranged from 20 to 130 macro nu(e) cm(-2) s(-1). Additionally, an upper bound of 1.2 macro nu(e) cm(-2) s(-1) was set for the supernova relic neutrino flux in the energy region E(nu)>19.3 MeV.

Indications of neutrino oscillation in a 250 km long-baseline experiment

The K2K experiment observes indications of neutrino oscillation: a reduction of nu(mu) flux together with a distortion of the energy spectrum. Fifty-six beam neutrino events are observed in Super-Kamiokande (SK), 250 km from the neutrino production point, with an expectation of 80.1(+6.2)(-5.4). Twenty-nine one ring mu-like events are used to reconstruct the neutrino energy spectrum, which is better matched to the expected spectrum with neutrino oscillation than without. The probability that the observed flux at SK is explained by statistical fluctuation without neutrino oscillation is less than 1%.

Expression of tegument protein pp65 of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) and its application to the analysis of viral-specific cellular immunity in CMV-infected individuals

Investigations into human cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific cellular immunity are important to better understand and manage CMV infections. CMV phosphoprotein pp65 is thought to be a major antigen for CMV-specific cellular immunity. We newly synthesized protein pp65 with a baculovirus expression system and purified it via metal affinity chromatography in a soluble form. The recombinant protein pp65 was antigenic in an enzyme immuno-linked assay for pp65-specific IgG in sera from 196 children. Traditional lymphoproliferation assays have shown that pp65 protein promotes specific lymphoproliferation in CMV-seropositive donors. Using an intracellular cytokine detection system, we showed that this recombinant protein stimulated CD4-positive T cells to express interferon-gamma. The results of these assays using protein pp65 were comparable with the use of CMV whole antigen. pp65- and CMV-specific cellular immunity, and CMV DNA load were also compared in four recipients of unrelated cord blood transplantation. The delay in re-constitution in CMV-specific cellular immunity was associated with reactivation of CMV. These results indicated that the recombinant protein pp65 can be used to study specific immunity in CMV infections.

The expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 in chondrocytes in synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint. report of two cases

Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a rare, benign condition characterized by the formation of metaplastic cartilaginous nodules. The expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 (FGFR-1) in two cases of SC of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) were immunohistochemically studied. The possible roles of FGF-2 and FGFR-1 in SC of the TMJ are discussed.

Annual trends and triple therapy--1991-2000

1. Although the number of cadaver donor transplants did not increase substantially over the past 10 years, unrelated living donor grafts increased from 153 in 1991 to 1,661 through 2000. Use of spousal and other unrelated donor organs contributed to this increase. There was a modest increase in living-related donor transplants from 2,328 in 1991 to 3,451 in 2000. 2. Cadaver donor graft survival at one year improved from 84% in 1991 to 90% in 2000. In contrast, one-year graft survival of living donor transplants only improved from 93% in 1991 to 95% in 2000. 3. Throughout the 10-year period, approximately 13% of transplants were repeat transplants from cadaver donors and roughly 8% were regrafts from live donors. 4. Cadaver donor transplants into White recipients declined from 68% in 1991 to 60% in 2000. For living donors, the percentage of White patients remained constant at about 70%. 5. Graft survival in patients of all races was about equal at one year but diverged at 3 years, with Asians having the highest and Blacks having the lowest 3-year graft survival rates. 6. Average donor age increased from 31.7 in 1991 to 36 in 2000 for cadaveric donor transplants and 37.9 in 1991 to 40.4 in 2000 for living donor transplants. Cadaveric kidneys from donors older than 50 years of age yielded significantly lower 3-year graft survival. 7. Average recipient age for cadaveric donor transplants increased from 42.1 in 1991 to 46.8 in 2000. The average recipient age for living donor transplants also increased steadily from 33.7 in 1991 to 42.9 in 2000. There was relatively little effect on graft survival rates for advanced age recipients. 8. The percentage of sensitized recipients receiving cadaver donor grafts declined from 27% in 1991 to 21% in 2000. Similarly, sensitized recipients receiving living donor grafts decreased from 17% in 1991 to 13% in 2000. Graft survival in patients with more than 50% PRA was lower at 3 years for patients receiving cadaveric donor grafts. Highly sensitized patients receiving living donor grafts had graft survival rates similar to those who were not sensitized. 9. Cold ischemia times decreased from an average of 24.2 hours in 1991 to 18.9 hours in 2000. Improved graft survival rates over those 10 years were noted in all groups, and even cold ischemia times more than 36 hours yielded 3-year graft survivals comparable to those with lower cold ischemia times in 1998. 10. The need for dialysis has remained constant at about 23% over the last 10 years for patients receiving kidneys from cadaveric donors. The rate of dialysis for patients receiving kidneys from living donors was about 5% for each of the 10 years examined. First day anuria increased from 11% in 1991 to 16% in 2000 for cadaver donor transplants and 3% in 1999 to 5% in 2000 for living donor grafts. 11. Cadaveric donor patients requiring dialysis had a 3-year graft survival rate of 63% if there was no first day anuria and 56% if they had first day anuria. This is in contrast to 80% 3-year graft survival for those with immediate diuresis and no need for dialysis. The 3-year graft survival rate for those receiving living donor grafts and needing dialysis was 58% if they had first day diuresis and 41% if they ware anuric on the first day. Conversely, those who had first day function and did not require dialysis had 89% 3-year graft survival. 12. Among the patients receiving cadaveric grafts with first day diuresis there was a marked reduction in those with rejection, from 21% in 1991 to 5% in 2000. Similarly, for this type of patient receiving living donor grafts, the reduction was 17% in 1991 to 5% in 2000. However, graft survival among these patients did not change significantly. The greatest improvement was noted in those with first day anuria and no rejection. 13. Patients who did not require dialysis, and had rejection prior to discharge decreased markedly from 17% in 1991 to 3% in 2000 in those receiving cadaveric grafts and 15% in 1991 to 3.9% in 2000 for those receiving living donors. Graft survival of cadaveric transplants in those needing dialysis, with and without rejection, improved the most in the 10 year period. 14. Hospitalization days for cadaveric transplant recipients were reduced from 19 days in 1991 to 10 days in 2000 and 16 days in 1991 to 8 days in 2000 for recipients of living donor grafts. There was an increase in discharge serum creatinine values from 2.3 mg/dl in 1991 to 3.3 mg/dl in 2000 for cadaver donor grafts. 15. Double therapy was utilized for about 15% of cadaveric and living donors. There was a sharp increase in induction therapy, peaking at 51% in 1994 and decreasing to 5% by 2000 for cadaveric donor transplants. Induction did not improve graft survival for either cadaver or living donor transplant recipients. 16. Triple therapy improved graft survival of White and Black patients, but did not affect the half-lives in either race. 17. The lower graft survival from older donors was not affected by triple therapy for cadaver donor transplants. Triple therapy removed the donor age effect for recipients of living donor grafts. 18. Triple therapy practically eliminated the effect of sensitization for cadaveric donor grafts. Both double and triple therapy virtually eliminated the sensitization effect for living donors. 19. Triple therapy significantly improved the survival of kidneys with more than 36 hours cold ischemia time so that 3-year graft survival was 76% at 3 years compared with 81% for kidneys stored 1-12 hours. 20. Triple therapy improved the 3-year graft survival of kidneys with first day anuria from 50% for double therapy to 69% for triple therapy in cadaver donor transplants. For living donor transplants, there was a similar improvement from 57% with double therapy to 72% with triple therapy. 21. Triple therapy improved the 3-year cadaveric graft survival rate of kidneys requiring dialysis from 51% with double therapy to 67% for triple therapy. There was a similar improvement for living donors needing dialysis from 37% to 61% at 3 years.

Three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations of energetic electron generation and transport with relativistic laser pulses in overdense plasmas

The interaction of relativistic laser light with overdense plasmas is studied by three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. Generation of layered current sheets and quasistatic magnetic fields is observed near the target surface owing to anisotropic laser filamentation and Weibel instabilities. Later these current sheets tear into filaments that partially merge with each other to form isolated magnetic channels penetrating into the dense plasmas. It is found that fast electron energy flow is not only inside the magnetic channels but also it is widely distributed outside the channels. This is possible because of electron anomalous diffusion across self-generated magnetic fields. Consequently, the total hot electron current exceeds a few hundred kiloamperes and is much larger than the Alfvén current. Hence a considerable amount of energy flows towards the plasma core. Significant heating of the bulk plasma electrons is also observed.

Persistent increase in myofibroblasts in Helicobacter heilmannii-infected mice but not in Helicobacter pylori-infected Mongolian gerbils: colocalization of COX-2 and bFGF immunoreactivity

BACKGROUND

The clinical significance of Helicobacter heilmannii infection remains uncertain, owing to the lack of a specific detection method. Recently, we reported a marked increase in myofibroblasts in the early stage of Helicobacter pylori infection in Monglian gerbils.

AIM

The present study was designed to clarify changes in myofibroblasts, and in the immunoeactivities of basic fibroblast growth factor, cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase after H. pylori infection in Monglian gerbils and H. heilmannii infection in mice.

METHODS

After oral inoculation, changes in the location of bacteria and the immunoreactivity of myofibroblasts, basic fibroblast growth factor, cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase were stained with the indirect immunofluorescent method and observed by confocal laser microscopy.

RESULTS

In H. heilmannii-infected mice, the increases in myofibroblasts and in immunoreactivities of these three markers were sustained 12 months after infection. In H. pylori-infected Monglian gerbils, however, these increases were significant at 3 months but had returned to control levels at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Two types of Helicobacter infection showed different patterns of myofibroblast proliferation, coinciding with the extent of inflammation. These findings suggest that this difference may be related to the consequences of the infection.

Volatile anesthetic actions on the GABAA receptors: contrasting effects of alpha 1(S270) and beta 2(N265) point mutations

Previous studies have suggested that two specific amino acid residues in transmembrane segments 2 and 3 of the GABA(A) receptor alpha 2 subunit, Ser270 and Ala291, are critical for the enhancement of GABA(A) receptor function by inhaled anesthetics. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of amino acid substitutions in alpha 1 beta 2 gamma 2s GABA(A) receptors at alpha 1(S270) and at the homologous beta 2(N265) on receptor gating and anesthetic potentiation of GABA-induced responses. The wild-type and mutant receptors were transiently expressed in HEK 293 cells and GABA-induced currents were recorded using whole-cell voltage clamp. Potentiation of responses to a submaximal concentration of GABA by the anesthetics halothane and isoflurane was also examined. Some of the point mutations caused shifts in the GABA dose-response curve, indicating that the mutations changed the apparent affinity of the receptor for GABA. In receptors mutated at alpha 1(S270), the GABA EC(50) is inversely correlated with the volume of the residue of 270. On the contrary, there was no clear relationship between the physical properties of the amino acid residue at 265 in the beta 2 subunit and either the GABA EC(50) or anesthetic modulation, although mutations at N265 altered both parameters in a quantitative manner. These data are consistent with the results of previous work using other subunit combinations, in confirming that alpha 1(S270) may be involved in channel gating, and also may be important in anesthetic binding; the role of beta 2(N265) is less clear.

kdsA mutations affect FtsZ-ring formation in Escherichia coli K-12

No one has, as yet, addressed the relationship between the nature of the outer membrane and cell division. kdsA encodes 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonic acid (KDO) 8-phosphate synthetase which catalyses the first step in the synthesis of KDO, the linker between lipid A and oligosaccharide of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Seven temperature-sensitive mutants containing missense mutations in kdsA were affected in the production of KDO and all mutants stopped dividing at 41 degrees C and formed filaments with either one or no FtsZ ring. All observed defects were reversed by the plasmid-borne wild-type kdsA gene. Western blotting analysis, however, demonstrated that the amount of FtsZ protein was not affected by the mutation. The mutants were more susceptible to various hydrophobic materials, such as novobiocin, eosin Y and SDS at 36 degrees C. Methylene blue, however, restored kdsA mutant growth. Plasmid-borne wild-type msbA, encoding a lipid A transporter in the ABC family, partially suppressed kdsA mutation. A mutation of lpxA, functioning at the first stage in lipid A biosynthesis, inhibited both cell division and growth, producing short filaments. These results indicate that the instability of the outer membrane, caused by the defect in KDO biosynthesis, affects FtsZ-ring formation.